Dodge Charger (A-body). 1971–80 (prod. n/a). 2-door coupé. F/R, 5212 cm³ (V8 OHV). Unlike the US model of the same name, the Brazilian model was based around the A-body Dart, though it attempted to follow the Dodge Charger (1968–70) by having “flying buttresses” at the rear. Base model (later called LS) and R/T offered at launch. Refreshes in 1973, with quad lights hidden behind grille, and 1975; revised interior 1976. Compression ratio reduced in 1977, while the bonnet with fake air intakes disappeared in favour of the standard one the following year. A more substantial facelift took place for the 1979 model year, with the removal of the buttresses and even the tachometer, with more emphasis on luxury and less on sportiness. The small rear side windows had “blinds”, distinguishing Charger from Magnum. Radial tyres became an option, while the suspension was softened. The R/T initials vanished for 1980. It was the end of the line for the Charger—the Magnum effectively took its place after 1980, when it carried on for one more year before being axed itself.

Manufacturing location: São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Brazil

Marque: Dodge | Model: Dodge Charger | Successor: Dodge Magnum (1978–81)

q.v. Dodge Dart (1969–81), Dodge Le Baron